Abstract

The Italian public school is neutral and pluralist, having its purpose intercultural education. For these reasons, the Islamic veil is permitted and the school cafeterias offer halal menus; though, it can be difficult to coordinate the ṣalāt with school hours. For similar reasons, Christian symbols, holidays and traditions, are incorporated into the school day. Schools may offer a course on Islamic religion at the request of families or students through agreements with Islamic Communities under common educational legislation, according to the Constitutional Agreements (art. 8), and an evolutionary application of the law n. 1159/1929. In order to facilitate these courses it is recommended that the schools promote Agreements with Islam and the other minority sects.